Most pet parents don’t think about dental care as often as they should, but your dog or cat’s teeth are a major part of their overall health. Plaque, tartar, gum disease, and oral infections can develop quickly without proper care, often leading to pain or more serious illnesses. The truth is, pets who maintain healthy teeth typically live 2–3 years longer than those with untreated dental disease. A combination of routine home care and professional veterinary cleanings is the best way to protect both your pet’s smile and their long-term well-being.
What Happens at a Professional Dental Cleaning?
A veterinary dental procedure is much more thorough than brushing or any anesthesia-free cleaning. During the process, your veterinarian removes tartar above and below the gumline, polishes the teeth for a smooth finish, and examines the mouth for issues you wouldn’t notice at home, like fractured teeth, gum pockets, or oral tumors. These steps are essential for catching problems early and preventing painful disease progression.
Take Advantage of Our Free Dental Evaluations
Not sure where to start? We offer complimentary dental evaluations with our trained veterinary technicians. During this visit, your pet’s teeth and gums will be assessed, and a dental disease grade will be provided. If advanced dental disease is found, a veterinarian will need to evaluate your pet further, and antibiotics may be prescribed. In this case, a doctor’s exam fee will apply, and your appointment may need to be rescheduled depending on availability for a complete treatment plan.
Why Dental Health Matters
Did you know that more than 80% of cats and dogs show signs of dental disease by the age of 3? This isn’t just about bad breath, it’s a medical issue. Bacteria in the mouth can spread through the bloodstream and affect major organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys. Regular cleanings protect more than just your pet’s teeth; they protect their overall health. That’s why dental cleanings are included in our Preventative Care Wellness Plans, which are available with low monthly payment options.
When to Seek Dental Care Immediately
While yearly cleanings are important, certain symptoms mean your pet needs dental attention right away. Contact us if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen, or inflamed gums
- Bleeding gums or bloody saliva
- Teeth with yellow or brown buildup
- Loose or missing teeth
- Difficulty chewing, dropping food, or chewing on one side only
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Blood on toys or in the water bowl
- Avoiding dry food, hard treats, or chews
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Swelling in the jaw or around the mouth
How Often Should Pets Have Their Teeth Cleaned?
The ideal cleaning schedule depends on factors like your pet’s age, breed, diet, and overall health. As a general guideline:
- Dogs and cats age 3+: A professional cleaning at least once a year is recommended.
- Small breed dogs: Every 6–9 months, as they are more prone to dental disease.
- Pets fed a wet food diet: Every 6 months, since soft food doesn’t help clean teeth as effectively as dry kibble.
- Senior pets (6+ years): Often require more frequent cleanings due to higher risk of gum disease.
- Pets already showing dental disease: Your veterinarian may advise cleanings more often to manage progression.
Daily Care at Home
While professional cleanings are essential, at-home care is what helps keep your pet’s mouth healthy between visits. Here are some simple ways to help:
- Brush your pet’s teeth at least 3 times a week using a veterinary-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste).
- Offer dental chews like Greenies or Oravet that are designed to fight plaque and tartar.
- Add products like Plaque Off to your pet’s food daily, it helps break down tartar and prevent new buildup.
- Try approved dental wipes or water additives for extra support.
- Keep up with wellness exams so your veterinarian can track your pet’s dental health.
The Bottom Line
For most pets, once-a-year professional dental cleanings are the standard, but your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your pet’s specific needs. Clean teeth don’t just mean fresh breath, they mean a healthier, happier life.
To schedule your pet’s next dental cleaning, call us at 623.282.4900 or book an appointment online. Want to learn more about pricing and services? Visit our dental page here: https://bellparkwayvet.com/dental/.
